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One of the world’s top tourist destinations, the Caribbean’s stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and crystal clear water attract visitors from across the globe. Each island has its own historical and cultural influences — resulting in a vibrant mix of traditions, cuisine, festivals, and music. Languages vary from English to Spanish to French, with lyrical Creole, Hindi, and some African expressions thrown in. You will be seduced by the rhythms of reggae, Soca, and calypso and the casual, super-chill attitude across the islands.

The region also boasts a collection of hidden gems — luxurious small resorts that cater to you and your group’s specific needs. Read on to learn what team members at some of these exceptional Preferred Hotels & Resorts Caribbean resorts love about their property, why it makes an extraordinary backdrop for your meetings, events, or incentive trips, and what they love about these captivating locations:

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8 EXCEPTIONAL PREFERRED PROPERTIES IN THE CARIBBEAN  

Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla

British Virgin Islands

Montego Bay, Jamaica

San Juan, Puerto Rico 

Notes From the Field

Craig Thomas
Director of Sales and Marketing
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club

About Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club

Anguilla is a beautiful, elegant, and laid-back Caribbean island that offers visitors pristine white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise water, a selection of gorgeous resorts for various types of travelers, delicious food, from quintessential beach bars to fine dining, an array of land and water activities, and welcoming, friendly locals.

What are your 3 favorite things about Anguilla?   

• The sincere friendliness and welcoming spirit of the Anguillan people add to the beauty of the island.
  
  
• Since Anguilla is not a mass-market tourism destination, it retains an authentic and adventurous feel for visitors. There are never any crowds; the beaches, restaurants, and activities on the island are always accessible and intimate.  
  
  
• The culinary culture is superb and the quality and variety of restaurant and bar options on the island are much deeper than expected.

What are the 3 top activities for groups on property?

• Aurora International Golf Club offers the only golf courses on the island, including the 18-hole International Course which is ranked as #3 in the Caribbean by USA Today readers. The 9-hole Avalon Links short course and a top-notch golf academy provide unparalleled training opportunities.
  
  
• Tennis, pickleball, sand volleyball, bocce ball, and a range of other sporty options, including high-level clinics and training, are available at the racquet complex at the Entertainment Park, which also offers a family-friendly waterpark with a lagoon-style pool, lazy river, three waterslides, and private cabanas.
  
  
• More activities and amenities than generally available at Caribbean resorts include the Sorana Spa; a fitness center with classes, including yoga, beach boot camps, guided meditations, and high-intensity interval training and equipment for every level and type of movement; flora and fauna tours; cooking classes; and non-motorized water activities, including paddleboard, kayaking, cave tours, and snorkeling.

Recommend a favorite local restaurant.  

Ocean Echo is a comfortably elegant restaurant located on Meads Bay, one of the best beaches in Anguilla. In addition to the great food — best bets are the grilled crayfish or Anguilla’s signature dish, red snapper with rice and peas — with key ingredients that are sustainably harvested from the island’s waters. It also offers beach lounges and umbrellas which guests can use while they spend time at the beachside location. I recommend taking a swim in the clear blue waters before or after your meal.

What is your favorite food or drink order at the hotel?   

It is impossible to choose between the crayfish casserole at Chef’s Table and Olivia’s mezzelune ricotta e cavolo, a pasta dish with beautiful flavors that is similar to a ravioli, stuffed with ricotta cheese, kale, pistachio, and lemon sage. The mascarpone flatbread pizza from Rendezvous room service is the ultimate comfort food, especially after a day out on the water, and of course, you can’t go wrong with any of the cuts of meat perfectly cooked on the Josper charcoal oven at D. Richard’s, which is located at the Aurora International Golf Club.

A casually sophisticated beachfront resort on Rendezvous Bay, Forbes Four-Star Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club offers 178 luxurious suites and villas, magnificent beaches, locally sourced cuisine, multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces, and a diverse range of activities across 
380 acres.

The common denominator to any experience here is the truly friendly, sincere, and caring interactions with the staff at the resort. Hospitality and service are delivered in a meaningful and authentic way, with a true sense of caring.

What are the top 3 activities for groups in Anguilla?  

• Water activities, with a focus on Prickley Pear Cay or Sandy Island. Both are small uninhabited islands, except for a casually perfect beach bar and grill on each. After a very short and scenic boat ride to either, groups can hold beach Olympics, throw a beach barbecue, or just relax and enjoy their own private island.
  
  
• Take a local island tour using Mokes, a small local vehicle — think larger than a golf cart but smaller than a real Jeep.
  
  
• Explore the Salt Flats where groups can harvest their own sea salt.

Outside of the traditional meeting space on property, what other unique meeting venues can a group use on-site or near the resort?  

• The 550-person Aurora Amphitheater at the Entertainment Park is a truly unique feature for group events. The outdoor amphitheater is an excellent option for awards functions, as well as casual concerts and tailgate parties.
  
  
• The organic farm at the Hydroponic Garden provides an understated and elegant venue for intimate functions with less than 100 people.
  
  
• The second-floor private space at the golf course clubhouse offers indoor and outdoor options on a terrace overlooking the fairways as well as the sea and St. Maarten skyline.

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Anguilla

British Virgin Islands

Jamaica

Puerto Rico

Saint Barthélemy

Anse des Cayes, Saint Barthélemy  

Describe Anguilla to someone who has never visited.

Getting There

Travelers can reach Anguilla by flying into St. Maarten's Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) followed by a short ferry ride to Anguilla’s new Blowing Point Ferry Terminal. Upon arrival at SXM, and after completing the immigration process, guests of Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club will be met by a resort greeter in the Arrival Hall. The greeter will be easily identifiable and will assist with luggage and transportation to the ferry dock. At the dock, a boat agent will collect your passport to register your details for your boat transfer. A shared or private sea shuttle can also be arranged. 

The resort has also arranged seasonal charter flights directly to Anguilla’s Clayton J. Lloyd Airport (AXA) out of Miami (MIA) and Westchester County Airport in White Plains, New York (HPN). 

Share a “locals only” tip about Anguilla.  

Island residents know Rendezvous Beach is the island's most romantic walking beach — because of its 2-mile length and view of St. Maarten on the horizon.

Share a secret or tip about Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club.  

The beach at Merrywing is the best for snorkeling; there’s coral right off the beach and it's easy to start snorkeling, just step into the water!

What is the most popular local holiday how do you celebrate it on property?  

Carnival!  Generally the first week of August. Here, it is as exhilarating as Carnival anywhere in the Caribbean or Latin America, but with the added excitement of the boat races, which is the Anguillian national pastime. The resort sponsors one of the racing yachts and it’s very competitive; guests and employees enjoy cheering for the boat’s victory.  

What types of groups are ideal for your hotel?

Incentive groups or business meetings of 100 rooms or less, with up to 200 attendees, are perfect for Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club. Two separate campuses — the historic Rendezvous Beach and the more contemporary Merrywing Bay — have two distinct personalities, each fully supported with their own pools, restaurants, lobby, and room products, as well as outdoor event spaces. At 100 rooms or less, a group can privatize a campus for a truly unique and personalized experience.

When is the best time of year to visit? 

November and the first half of December can’t be beat. The temperatures and humidity are at their most comfortable, plus it’s an off-peak travel period so there are fewer visitors on the island and the values are still extraordinary compared to peak season. The combination of excellent value paired with great local conditions makes it extremely attractive.

If a group is looking for the most favorable rates, when would be the best time to visit? 

During the low season, from August through October. This time of year is known as our “Secret Season,” when Aurora is the only major resort open on the island and groups receive outstanding value in both room rates and concession packages.   

Marike Friends
Director of Sales
Peter Island Resort

About Peter Island Resort 

Peter Island is a one-of-a-kind, private island paradise. This luxury private island hideaway has been a treasured secret among sophisticated travelers and has enchanted guests for decades. The island features hundreds of lush, tropical acres, five pristine beaches, two luxury villas, and a variety of beachfront accommodations just steps from the sea. Peter Island Yacht Club, a must on every sailing itinerary, offers a full-service marina with dockage that accommodates superyachts of up to 200 feet. The 10,000-square-foot spa at Peter Island is a tranquil seaside wellness oasis that takes pampering to the next level. Unspoiled natural wonders and an abundance of land and sea activities include diving, snorkeling, sailing, windsurfing, deep sea fishing, pickleball, and hiking up the island’s scenic Sunset Loop. 

What are your 3 favorite things about Peter Island?   

• Five powder white sand beaches — two are remote and pristinely preserved to offer spectacular snorkeling over vibrant coral reefs right from the beach. Sometimes you will have the beach all to yourself.
  
  
• The Spa — it overlooks the Atlantic side of the island and Big Reef Bay, so the views over the beach and reefs are mesmerizing. Listening to the crashing waves on this side of the island while enjoying a treatment or yoga session is hypnotically relaxing. From January through March humpback whales migrate through Caribbean waters and there are often whale sightings off the shoreline.
  
  
• The island staff — they make Peter Island special. The warmth of the people and their dedication to our guests embodies true Caribbean hospitality. They are the soul of the island that keeps guests coming back.  

What are the 3 top activities for groups on property?

• Enjoy a day at the Yacht Club and play pickleball, bocce ball, basketball, or any of the fun lawn games. Relax by the pool and grab a bite at the Drunken Pelican.
  
  
• Beach time — book a cabana with butler service, or enjoy a half day at one of our remote beaches with a champagne picnic lunch. Watersports are fun, too.
  
  
• Sunset Loop Celebration — toast the day enjoyed and the new day to come with champagne and snacks at the highest point of the island. Spectacular panoramic views over the BVI’s and USVI’s in the distance as the sun sets on the horizon. Look for the green flash!

Recommend a favorite local restaurant.  

So many great places! Cooper Island, Norman Island, Jost van Dyke — all of the surrounding islands have unique and fun bars and restaurants to enjoy, most only accessible by boat and run by locals. You will not find commercial chains in the BVI as they are not allowed by the BVI government, specifically to protect the unique authentic nature of the BVI’s culture and heritage. It is what keeps the BVI so pristine, authentic, and genuinely Caribbean. 

I recommend a day trip to Anegada, the only “flat” island in the BVI, which can’t be seen on the horizon. Known as the lobster island, it is surrounded by a coral atoll and the bluest waters. Anegada has the whitest beaches and freshest lobsters — pulled right out of the sea in front of you, grilled on open-fire oil drum grills, and served with grilled corn on the cob and veggies. It doesn’t get better or fresher than that!

What is your favorite food or drink order at the hotel?   

Our house-made fresh Ginger Lemonade is labor intensive to make but tastes so light and refreshing, a perfect thirst-quenching drink. 

Jean Kelly’s famous coconut French toast has been a staple on the menu for over 20 years. Jean has been with Peter Island for over 35 years and is so loved by so many of our guests. She has an incredible photographic memory and remembers everyone — even if she hasn’t seen them for 20 years!  

Peter Island offers the natural pristine untouched beauty of a private, tropical island mindfully preserved for decades. The long-anticipated re-opening brings a luxurious, yet casually elegant, resort with new beachfront accommodations and facilities just steps from the water’s edge that offer spectacular ocean views. Newly re-imagined amenities and exclusive experiences have been curated for guests to enjoy “Our Island, Your Way,” with a unique menu of exclusive options to create the ultimate private island event. Exclusive Island Buy-Outs are available for up to 124 guests, as well as partial buyouts, and anything in between. 

With a new 3,200 square-foot oceanfront conference center, multiple outlets, and a variety of outdoor locations, the island lends itself perfectly to private events, offering endless options and a different ambiance across the resort’s facilities and beaches. 

What are the top 3 activities for groups on Peter Island and the British Virgin Islands?  

• Enjoy the pools and any of our five beaches. For a lively scene, head to the Yacht Club Pool by the Drunken Pelican. For a tranquil respite, enjoy a cabana on the beach with butler service at The Lodge, or head to one of our more remote beaches with a champagne picnic lunch.
  
  
• The spa, of course.
  
  
• Off-island excursions that include island hopping to Jost Van Dyke, “The Baths” of Virgin Gorda and Cooper island, exploring the BVI’s main island of Tortola, snorkeling or diving excursions or Turtle tagging as part of the BVI turtle conservation program. There’s also full- or half-day sailing, deep-sea fishing, and BVI helicopter tours.  

Outside of the traditional meeting space on property, what other unique meeting venues can a group use on-site or near the resort?  

Beyond the variety of dining venues — The Drake Steakhouse, The Lodge, and The Drunken Pelican — our beaches offer wonderful casual venues for a “feet in the sand” event with a Caribbean buffet with live oil drum grilling stations on the beach, a steel pan band, and Caribbean Moco Jumbie dancers (stilt walkers). The Lodge Pool Deck and the Spa Pool Deck offer different experiences. The Lodge Wine Tasting Room is an intimate setting perfect for a small group event, like a wine tasting with our sommelier. 

Tradewinds Conference Center Event Lawn is a dramatic outdoor venue with an up-lit stone cliff on one side and the twinkling lights of Tortola in the distance over the water, and Coconut Grove Garden is our most popular wedding ceremony venue, completely private from the rest of the resort, with captivating views overlooking the beach, Big Reef Bay, and the lush tropical greens of the coconut palms. 

Expansive villas — Falcons Nest Villa and our two-bedroom Beach Front Villa — are perfect for dinners, cocktails, or a hospitality suite. Facing the sunset side of the island and overlooking White Bay Beach, the stunning Falcons Nest gives your intimate dinner or sunset cocktail event a WOW factor and an unforgettable experience for your guest with a fireworks display at eye level, lighting up BVI skies and island silhouettes beyond.  

Describe Peter Island to someone who has never visited.

Getting There

Peter Island is just five miles south of Tortola and is served by ferry, helicopter, and private yacht. The nearest airport to Peter Island is Beef Island Airport (EIS) on Tortola, 30 minutes away by ferry. If you travel through St. Thomas’ Cyril E. King International Airport (STT), they will direct you to a waiting taxi for a 15-minute ride to the Peter Island Ferry terminal where you can wait in air-conditioned comfort, or, if there is time, shop a little in Charlotte Amalie. The ferry departs St. Thomas at 3:30 pm for a gorgeous 90-minute trip (with a brief customs stop) to Peter Island. Returns to St. Thomas depart at 8:30 am from Peter Island (Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays only), so schedule your departure after noon.

Share a “locals only” tip about Peter Island.  

There are many different species of cacti on the island. When you are hiking and see a Turk’s Cap cactus, a barrel-shaped cactus with bright pink tubular flowers, check to see if there is a ripe pod. You can wiggle them out of the top of the cactus and eat them. To me, they taste a bit like a kiwi.  

At Sunset Loop, look for “Elvis” —  a silhouette of Elvis Presley’s profile formed by island mountains on the sunset’s horizon. You may see him, you may not.

What is the most popular local holiday how do you celebrate it on property?  

New Year’s Eve is the most popular celebration at Peter Island; a lavish buffet, entertainment, and champagne toasts, but the fireworks show over the water at midnight steals the show.

What types of groups are ideal for your hotel?

Incentive groups, conferences, and weddings – groups between 10-50 rooms are perfect. The resort can accommodate 104-124 guests (based on double occupancy). 50 rooms would take over the entire resort around the beach for a unique private island experience. The resort’s two villa estates can be included as well. The “Our Island, Your Way” program offers groups an “exclusivity menu” that provides flexibility to build your own level of exclusivity for events and create an island buyout experience without the buyout price tag. Take over the resort and privatize The Spa or Yacht Club for the day. Of course, complete island buyouts are available as well, perfect for celebrity weddings, product launches, or a very unique group experience. 

When is the best time of year to visit? 

There is no bad time of year to visit the BVI since we do not have seasonal fluctuations. It’s always nice and warm, with gentle breezes off the sea, and the beaches and water are always comfortable. During the summer months, we may see a bit more rain, but it never lasts more than a few minutes with the sun coming right back out after that, which makes for beautiful skies and incredible rainbows!

If a group is looking for the most favorable rates, when would be the best time to visit? 

June 1 through December 19 is our low season and would offer the lowest rates. January and May are shoulder season months, with February 1 through April 30 as our high season. We offer group rates and concessions based on group room nights and patterns.

Issia Thelwell
Group Leisure Sales Director
Half Moon

About Half Moon  

Montego Bay is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant culture. From the moment you set foot in this tropical paradise, you'll be enchanted by its warm, welcoming atmosphere. The lush, emerald hillsides cascade down to meet pristine, turquoise waters, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop for your adventure. A haven for sun-seekers, Jamaica offers some of the Caribbean's most stunning beaches, like Doctor's Cave Beach, where you can dip your toes in crystal-clear waters and bask in the golden Jamaican sun. Montego Bay’s bustling "Hip Strip" beckons with colorful markets, lively reggae music, and delicious jerk chicken stands, allowing you to immerse yourself in the island's rich, rhythmic culture.  

Beyond the beaches and nightlife, Montego Bay boasts a wealth of activities, from exploring historical sites like the Rose Hall Great House to embarking on exciting river adventures in the nearby tropical rainforests. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Montego Bay has it all, making it an idyllic destination for first-time visitors to Jamaica. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty, charm, and spirit of Montego Bay, a place that will forever hold a piece of your heart.

What are your 3 favorite things about Jamaica?   

• Convenient Location: Its proximity to the Sangster International Airport and easy access to other preferred attractions in Negril.
  
  
• Natural Beauty: Montego Bay is a coastal gem, and its pristine beaches are truly a paradise on Earth. From the powdery sands of Doctor's Cave Beach to the serene Half Moon Bay, there's a beach for every preference.
  
  
• Vibrant Culture and Entertainment: The heartbeat of Montego Bay is its lively culture and music, and the friendly locals create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're dancing to the reggae rhythms at a local nightlife hotspot like Pier One on the Waterfront or exploring the rich history at the Montego Bay Cultural Centre and National Art Gallery West, the city pulsates with the spirit of Jamaica.

What are the top activities for groups on property?

• World-Class Golf: Gather your group of golf enthusiasts and tee off at our renowned Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed golf course.
  
  
• Personalized Recreational Adventures: The resort's 400 acres of lush grounds offer an abundance of recreational opportunities. From land sports from tennis and pickleball to horseback riding, there's an adventure to suit every member of your group.
  
  
• Spa and Wellness Retreats: After a day of meetings or golf, your group deserves pampering. Our award-winning Fern Tree Spa, set in a tranquil oasis, offers a variety of rejuvenating treatments.
  
  
• Turtle Release Program: Guests participating in the enchanting turtle release program at Half Moon experience a deep connection to nature and develop a strong commitment to environmental conservation. With hearts full of wonder, they join a remarkable journey to the ocean's edge, guiding newly hatched turtles on their adventurous quest for the open sea.

Recommend a favorite local restaurant.  

What is your favorite food or drink order at the hotel?   

The oxtail ravioli at the award-winning Sugar Mill Restaurant is an exquisite testament to the art of culinary transformation, elevating a beloved Jamaican household dish into an international fine dining masterpiece. The oxtail ravioli is not just a meal; it's the embodiment of tradition, innovation, and the universal language of exceptional food that transcends cultures and brings people together in appreciation of culinary excellence.  

The "Legacy 65" cocktail at Half Moon is a tribute to our rich history and the essence of timeless elegance. Crafted with the utmost care and precision, this cocktail embodies the spirit of sophistication and indulgence that defines our 65 years of excellence. A tantalizing blend of premium Jamaican rum, freshly squeezed citrus, and a hint of locally sourced honey, it's a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. With every sip, you're not just tasting a cocktail; you're savoring a piece of history, a legacy of luxury, and the promise of many more enchanting years to come at Half Moon. It's a toast to our past, our present, and the future of hospitality redefined. 

Known for its unparalleled commitment to providing a transcendent and luxurious experience, Half Moon's reputation for unwavering excellence is grounded in its 65-year legacy of impeccable service, breathtaking natural beauty, and world-class amenities. This iconic resort nestled on 400 acres of pristine beachfront offers spacious accommodations, delectable cuisine, and a host of activities from an award-winning golf course to a rejuvenating spa, and the options for relaxation and recreation are limitless.

What are the top activities for groups in Jamaica?  

• Water Adventures: Gather your group for thrilling water escapades in the warm Caribbean waters. Montego Bay is a water sports haven, offering snorkeling, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, and boat tours to explore the vibrant underwater world. For those seeking more leisurely activities, catamaran cruises along the coast provide an ideal opportunity for sun-soaked relaxation and picturesque sunsets.
  
  
• Historical and Cultural Exploration: Uncover the rich history and culture of Jamaica with your group by visiting iconic sites like the Rose Hall Great House, where tales of the "White Witch" come to life, and the Rastafarian Village, which celebrates the culture of the indigenous people. Engaging with the local culture through music, dance, and authentic cuisine is a must for a complete Jamaican experience.

Outside of the traditional meeting space on property, what other unique meeting venues can a group use on-site or near the resort?  

Our state-of-the-art conference facilities offer the latest technology, ensuring seamless presentations and efficient networking. The lush tropical surroundings and captivating Caribbean ambiance provide a serene backdrop for brainstorming and team building. The expert event planning team at Half Moon is dedicated to curating tailored experiences, from corporate retreats to grand conferences.  

The Royal Pavilion at Half Moon is a versatile space that encompasses an expansive lawn, an airy terrace, and a charming gazebo by a lily pond, all offering magnificent views of Sunrise Beach, the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, and a breathtaking backdrop. It features a distinctive fusion of Georgian and Jamaican open-air architecture, allowing groups to customize the layout according to their specific needs. 

Describe Jamaica to someone who has never visited.

Getting There

The resort is a 10-minute drive from Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport (MBJ), which offers daily flights from most gateway cities in North America as well as the UK and Europe. Half Moon has a welcome lounge immediately outside the Customs Hall, where a concierge team will greet you and assist with your transfer to the resort. 

Share a “locals only” tip about Jamaica.  

For a casually memorable offsite experience, visit the Doctor's Cave Beach Club whose clear and inviting turquoise waters were once believed to have healing properties due to their high mineral content and temperature.  

Share a secret or tip about Half Moon.  

The Seagrape Terrace is the perfect vantage point to watch the sunset. Visit the corner of the Founders Cove lobby to find a captivating display of historic photographs that showcase the evolution of Half Moon through the decades, including a copy of Jackie Kennedy's last will, written on Half Moon letterhead.

What is the most popular local holiday how do you celebrate it on property?  

Jamaica's most celebrated and beloved local holiday is Independence Day on August 6th. This significant day holds a special place in the hearts of Jamaicans as it marks the country's independence from British Colonial rule in 1962. Festivities include grand parades, vibrant displays of the Jamaican flag, and lively street parties that echo the island's vibrant spirit. Half Moon organizes a range of special activities and events to mark this significant occasion and provide a memorable experience for visitors that include cultural performances with traditional Jamaican music, dance, and storytelling; special menus featuring authentic Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, ackee, and saltfish; and organized activities that highlight the beauty and culture of Jamaica, such as visits to local attractions, reggae music concerts, and historical sites. 

What types of groups are ideal for your hotel?

Half Moon is an ideal destination for a wide range of groups, from corporate meetings and families to romantic getaways and golf enthusiasts, all seeking luxurious and unforgettable experiences.

When is the best time of year to visit? 

The best time of year to visit Jamaica is during the dry season from December to April, as the weather is consistently warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities. 

If a group is looking for the most favorable rates, when would be the best time to visit? 

August 1 – October 30

Dining at Scotchies in Montego Bay is a flavorful journey into the heart of Jamaica's culinary tradition. With its rustic and laid-back atmosphere, this renowned jerk chicken haven offers a truly authentic taste of the island. Guests are greeted by the smoky aroma of seasoned meats roasting over pimento wood, creating a mouthwatering anticipation that's perfectly complemented by the friendly, welcoming staff. Whether you're savoring the signature jerk chicken, pork, or delicious sides like roasted yam and sweet potatoes, dining at Scotchies is a quintessential casual Jamaican experience, where bold flavors and a relaxed ambiance come together to celebrate the island's vibrant food culture.

Militza Orama
Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

About Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

Puerto Rico is an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea consisting of the main island, four small islands, and hundreds of cays and islets. The island territory is only 100 miles long and 35 miles wide. Still, it packs a fantastic diversity of sights, scenery, and culture.  

The real charm of Puerto Rico is its people. They are charismatic, hospitable, super joyful, and passionate. You can experience the island in an immersive way through its food, drinks, music, and adventure.  

What are your 3 favorite things about San Juan?   

• Local food: try mofongo
  
  
• Swimming in Playuela in Cabo Rojo, on the southern-west corner of the Island
  
  
• Hiking in the rainforest: El Yunque is the only rainforest in the U.S. Forest System

Recommend a favorite local restaurant.  

What is your favorite food or drink order at the hotel?   

1919 is a must-have dining experience while in Puerto Rico. It is a fine dining, farm-to-table restaurant where all ingredients are locally sourced. For a cocktail before or a nightcap after, try the Lady Vanderbilt at the VC Lounge.

Built in 1919, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel is an oceanfront, urban luxury resort featuring 317 guestrooms, including 100 suites, that offers unsurpassed cuisine by Michelin Star-rated Chef Juan Jose Cuevas at fine dining restaurant 1919, Ola Ocean Front Bistro, Taco’s & Tequila, and STK, and a Cigar Lounge and two additional lounges. There is a breathtaking 10,000-square-foot luxury spa and fitness center and over 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.

What are the top 3 activities for groups in San Juan?  

• Visiting Old San Juan; it was founded in 1521
  
  
• Cocktail hopping in San Juan; STK, VC Lounge, District T-Mobile 
  
  
• Going on a culinary adventure; from local foods to fine dining all within walking distance from the hotel

Outside of the traditional meeting space on property, what other unique meeting venues can a group use on-site or near the resort?  

The Ocean Front Terrace is a stunning beachfront deck built in 1919 and was the original entrance to the hotel; guests arrived by boat then.  

Describe Puerto Rico to someone who has never visited.   

Getting There

Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in San Juan is the airport hub of the Caribbean, so you can easily find daily flights from major cities. Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so traveling from a United States location is just like flying from one state to another — there is no U.S. passport required and no long customs lines.

Share a “locals only” tip about San Juan.  

The locals are always late; you’ll hear “seems to be a Puerto Rico thing” about what is often called “island time” — but it really means that everything is so relaxed here, there’s just no rush.

Share a secret or tip about Condado Vanderbilt Hotel.  

The Condado Vanderbilt was the first hotel built in Puerto Rico; back in 1919. It all started with us!

What is the most popular local holiday how do you celebrate it on property?  

Three Kings is celebrated right after Christmas and marks the arrival of the three wise men, who followed the star and arrived at the manger on camels. Traditionally, children put grass in a shoe box and place it under the tree to feed the camels and receive a gift in exchange.

What types of groups are ideal for your hotel?

Groups requiring between 50 to 100 rooms. The hotel has over 100 suites with 217 standard rooms.

When is the best time of year to visit? 

All year! We have 85-degree temperatures year round.

If a group is looking for the most favorable rates, when would be the best time to visit? 

May 1 – October 31

Cocina al Fondo is an amazing and authentic experience. San Juan native and owner Natalia Vallejo made history when she won the James Beard Award for Best Chef South in 2023.  

Caroline Darmet
Key Account Sales Manager
Hotel Manapany

About Hotel Manapany  

St. Barths — also known as St-Barth, St. Barth, and Saint Barthélemy — is a little gem in the heart of the Caribbean. A French-speaking Caribbean island known for its luxe vibe and flawless beaches, it is popular among the jet set, home to many high-end restaurants, designer stores, and yachts, but not a lot of land or people — the population of the 9.26-square-mile island was around 11,000 in the most recent census. St. Barths is a perfect blend of wellness, culinary discovery, and natural beauty with a strong sense of French art de vivre.

What are your 3 favorite things about St. Barths?

• Watching the sunrise from the hotel beach
  
  
• Snorkeling with turtles
  
  
• Catamaran excursion

What are the 3 top activities for groups on property?

• Arrange a private yoga lesson or surfing class
  
  
• Mixology class with the bartenders
  
  
• Enjoy the beach of the hotel

Recommend a favorite local restaurant.  

What is your favorite food or drink order at the hotel?   

Pan-fried lobster tagliatelle with a homemade rum bisque for two at Rockies Restaurant.

Through subtle blends of sleek, bold furniture lines and deep tropical essences, Hotel Manapany offers a modern and chic atmosphere of an exclusive eco-resort with the feel of an authentic St. Barths villa. In a prime location, five minutes from Gustavia and the airport, 43 guestrooms overlook the beautiful garden or the ocean. Some guestrooms and suites are located directly on the hotel’s beach. The only hotel located on the Anse des Cayes, it is a perfect intimate resort for private groups with unique private options.   

What are the top 3 activities for groups in St. Barths?

• Take a boat excursion to discover a hidden beach
  
  
• Explore the culinary specialties
  
  
• Move around the island to discover all of the beach spots

Outside of the traditional meeting space on property, what other unique meeting venues can a group use on-site or near the resort?  

Several dining outlets can be privatized on-site — Rockies Restaurant right on the rocks, Sandy Beach under the shade of palm trees, and the poolside bar. The spa deck can be fully privatized too.

Describe St. Barths to someone who has never visited.

Getting There

The principal gateway to St. Barths Airport (SBH) is through Juliana Airport (SXM) on the Dutch side of St Maarten, where flights arrive daily from the U.S., Canada, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Helicopter charters are also available, and arriving by sea is also an option. Ferries arrive from St Maarten several times a day and private boats are available for hire. Of course, your sailboat or private yacht can be docked in the Gustavia harbor. 

Share a “locals only” tip about St. Barths. 

The hike to Colombier Beach — a hidden gem that you can only access by boat or hiking.

Share a secret or tip about Hotel Manapany.  

Hotel Manapany is the only eco-resort on the island and one of the first hotels built on St. Barth. It was fully refurbished in 2018 to offer an authentic, environmentally friendly barefoot luxury experience that takes guests back to the island’s roots.

What is the most popular local holiday how do you celebrate it on property?  

The most popular holiday is the festive period. However, we highly recommend a stay from April to June to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

What types of groups are ideal for your hotel?

We are very flexible and welcome all types of groups, from leisure to business and intimate weddings to buy-outs.

When is the best time of year to visit? 

For groups, throughout the open season (closed mid-August to early November).

If a group is looking for the most favorable rates, when would be the best time to visit? 

November to mid-December and from mid-April to July.

St. Barth is well-known for gourmet experiences that can be found around the island. Our concierge will be pleased to suggest several restaurants such as Bonito Saint Barth, an iconic restaurant located in the heart of Gustavia. 

February 28: Perth, Australia

February 29: Adelaide, Australia

March 18: New Delhi, India

March 19: Mumbai, India

March 25: Shanghai, China

March 26: Chengdu, China

Sharing the Moments

These events were not just about photos and makeup; they were also about forging new relationships and having meaningful conversations with colleagues and contacts. We are excited to share a glimpse of our recent "Snap to Success" networking events through snapshots from these productive (and fun) events.